Hear how Sylvester Middle School centers belonging and connection for every student. Principal Chad Kodama talks transitions, inclusion and the moments that inspire him.

During the December 3 board meeting, the Highline School Board elected its new officers for the coming year. Director Joe Van was selected to continue his service as board president, and Director Angelica Alvarez was elected to serve as board vice president. 

Four members of the Highline School Board reaffirmed their commitment to serve our students, staff, families and community after winning their November elections. Angelica Alvarez, Joe Van, Dr. Damarys Espinoza and Blaine Holien each took the oath of office during a brief ceremony this week.

Winter break is coming up, and we want to thank you for all you do to help your children show up, learn, and feel part of our school community. This time of year often includes family gatherings and travel, sometimes far from home. We honor that. We also ask that travel plans follow the school calendar when possible, so your child doesn't miss valuable learning time. 

At Highline, everything begins with one question: how do we fulfill our promise to know every student by name, strength and need, so that they graduate prepare for the future they choose?

This promise shapes how we make decisions, how we build relationships and how we show up in our schools. Superintendent Dr. Ivan Duran leads with this approach, grounding our work in values that center students.  

We’ve been sharing regular updates on our work to reduce the 2026-27 budget by $8 million while maintaining long-term financial stability. This week, we are focusing on two factors that directly inform those decisions: our latest enrollment data and early insights from the Superintendent’s Advisory Leadership Team.

Student conferences offer a chance to understand your child’s progress and build a strong connection with their teacher. We share 10 helpful questions to guide your conversation—from academic growth to social well-being—so you leave with a clearer picture and ways to support learning at home.

Highline educators stepped away from their daily routine to focus on what matters most: helping every student feel valued, supported and fully included. On November 3, teachers, paraeducators and school leaders spent the day learning together about what students need to feel a strong sense of belonging at school and to be successful in their learning.  

We continue our work to develop a balanced budget for the 2026-27 school year. As shared in October, Highline will need to reduce spending by $8 million to maintain long-term financial stability. Department leaders are reviewing budgets now. We will also identify districtwide efficiencies and gather input from staff, families, students and community members. Monthly updates will be shared at School Board meetings throughout the year.